overall view about the different functions of lighthouses (selection)

sign

diagram

course differing

to port (left)

none

to starboard (right)

leading lights

Leading lights mark the course. They consist of the lower front light (F) near the coast and the higher rear light (R) deeper in land. If the course is correct, the rear light is exactly above the front light. If the course isn't correct, both lights are visible side by side.
 
***

sign

diagram

course differing

to port (left)

none

to starboard (right)

direction light

A direction light has the same function like a leading light (see above): mark the course. Such light has three sectors, the middle one (here white) marks the course, called leading sector. The both outer sectors (warning sectors) show with their colored light, that the course isn't right.
 
***

sign

diagram

air obstruction light

An air obstruction light marks dangerous areas with a red sector, uncertain areas are mostly marked with green sectors. The light with its colored sectors warns the skipper to be careful.
 
***

sign

diagram

cross light

Cross lights are shining across to the course. Their middle sector mark the point to change the course. The other colored outer sectors announce the changing of course.
 
***

sign

diagram

pier or
breakwater light

Pier or breakwater lights mark the entry to a port or harbour. One, mostly two breakwaters protect a port. A green pier light shines at the right head of pier (starboard) and a red one at the left head (port).
 
***

sign

diagram

lighthouse
orientation light

These lighthouses support the orientation at sea. They can identified by their light character and stand mostly at exposed positions.
 
***

back

home